asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether or not any arrangements have been made to financially compensate the next of kin of those who died in the Viscount disaster off the Wexford coast, especially the dependants of those who died; and, if so, if he will outline the arrangements made.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Air Crash Compensation.
100.
The determination of claims for compensation in this case fall to be determined under the Air Navigation and Transport Acts, 1936-65, and the Warsaw Convention to which they give effect.
I am informed by Aer Lingus that to date out of the total of 57 passengers, claims in respect of 27 have been settled and negotiations of settlement are proceeding in the case of 12 others. Notice of claims have been received in respect of six others and in the 12 remaining cases there have been no developments or claims to this date.
Rights to damages under the Warsaw Convention are barred if any action is not brought within two years.
Dependents who may not yet have lodged any claim would be well advised to consider the matter before the expiry of the two-year limitation on 23rd March next.
Will the Minister's Department take any steps to inform the dependants of this fact? They may not be aware of the two-year limitation.
I take it the press will give full publicity to my reply. Certainly, I shall take up that point. It is an aspect we may be able to do something about.
They probably are not aware of the two-year limitation.
I appreciate that.